Both online and in-person learning opportunities available; preschool spaces also open
HYANNIS, MA—September 3, 2020
The Cape Symphony & Conservatory is pleased to announce multiple opportunities for adults and youth to learn and play music this fall, both online and in-person at the Barnstable and Falmouth campuses. The Conservatory Preschool program in Barnstable has also added spaces for additional students. The fall term begins September 14.
The Preschool program, held at the Barnstable campus, enhances the learning experience of numbers, letters, and storytelling with music, dance, and visual arts. The Preschool is open to students whose age on September 1 is 2.9 to four years (two-day sessions on Tuesday and Thursday) and ages four to five years (three-day sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Preschool hours are 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Children ages five to 11 can enroll in the “Piano Explorers” class, offered in-person in Barnstable and Falmouth. Small groups of students are taught in a fun, positive, enthusiastic atmosphere. Piano Explorers emphasizes ear training, keyboard skills, rhythm, phrasing, fingering, singing, staff reading, improvisation, and composition.
The Cape Youth Orchestra, under the direction of Mark Miller, Cape Symphony principal clarinetist, will meet virtually this fall, as they did in the spring. The Cape Youth Orchestra is a full symphonic orchestra designed for our most advanced and dedicated youth musicians ages 14 to 22. Rolling auditions are open for the 2020/21 season and the CYO staff is preparing to begin this year’s program. CYO Repertory Strings will also be held online, giving string players in grades six through nine a strong foundation for orchestral playing. More information and audition details are available at capeyouthorchestra.org.
For adults seeking a new challenge this fall, Intro to Piano, ideal for those who have always wanted to play. Students will learn to play several simple songs for fun and enjoyment. A beginner level session will be offered online, and intermediate classes are offered both online and in Falmouth.
Two music appreciation classes are scheduled for adults. Beginning in October, Music Appreciation enables students to become acquainted with the world's great music and the fascinating composers behind it. Beethoven 250 starts in November and will offer a survey of Beethoven's lasting impact on music, which dramatically shifted the course of instrumental music and affected every composer after him. Both courses are geared for the casual listener and will be held in Falmouth.
The CJazz program gives youth and adult musicians of all skill levels a chance to play jazz standards in an ensemble, just like professionals on a bandstand. Students learn and play all styles of jazz (bebop, swing, Latin, 3/4, smooth, and standards). CJazz sessions will be offered in both Barnstable and Falmouth.
The Seaside String Ensemble is another multigenerational group, aimed at string students of all ages and levels. Students develop technical and rhythmic skills through the ensemble experience, in a low-pressure setting. Seaside Strings will meet in Barnstable.
Two Flute Choirs are planned for Falmouth, one for adults and one for ages ten to 18. Being part of a wind group offers players a different experience from a mixed ensemble. By focusing on intonation, rhythm, tone and technique, students learn how to blend within the ensemble to create a unique and beautiful sound.
“We’re excited that we’re able to offer such a wide variety of music instruction this fall, including socially distanced ensembles,” said Jackie deRuyter, Director of the Cape Conservatory. “There are so many health benefits to music, for both adults and children, and this is the perfect time to learn something new or improve your skills,” she said.
Throughout the fall, private lessons are offered for youth and adults, from beginning through advanced levels in all major instruments and voice. Lessons are held virtually using simple, user-friendly technology, and the faculty creates engaging experiences that work well online. In-person private lessons are also available on a limited basis at both the Barnstable and Falmouth campuses.
“We have implemented a safety plan that includes limiting the building capacity to 25%, staggering class times, wearing masks, and disinfecting studios and instruments in-between lessons,” added deRuyter. “The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our highest priority.”
For more information about the Cape Symphony & Conservatory fall music programs, and to register, visit www.capeconservatory.org and click on Youth Music or Adults Music. For questions, contact Jackie deRuyter at 508.362.2772,
Media Contact:
Ellen Cliggott, Director of Marketing
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About Cape Symphony & Conservatory
Cape Cod’s very own orchestra, Cape Symphony, performs at the Barnstable Performing Arts Center in Hyannis. From popular hits to magnificent classics, highlighting hidden gems and putting a new twist on standards, the emphasis is always on fun, surprises, and beautiful music. Led by Artistic Director and Conductor Jung-Ho Pak, the Cape Symphony provides an experience like no other. Cape Conservatory’s commitment to arts education for all ages includes musical instruction as well as classes in dance and visual art at campuses in Barnstable and Falmouth. Its Preschool program is known for blending traditional academics with the arts. Through Link Up and other community outreach programs, Cape Conservatory brings an array of engaging programs to thousands of students on the Cape and Islands. Visit www.capesymphony.org and www.capeconservatory.org for more information.
